The Miami Marlins arrived in Houston hoping to recover from a difficult period. Rather, things became more difficult.
After an 8-5 loss to the Astros at Daikin Park on Monday night, Miami’s losing streak reached seven games, extending what was already a season-high run for a team that was in playoff contention for the first half of the season.
14th HR of the season for Liam Hicks! pic.twitter.com/C885Ar4gJd
— Marlins Radio Network (@MarlinsRadio) July 21, 2026
A six-run second inning for Houston was highlighted by Jeremy Peña’s grand slam, and Yordan Alvarez added two more home runs to tie him for the major league lead with a season total of 33.
Miami’s defeat came with an unwanted bonus: All-Star right-hander Max Meyer was placed on the 15-day disabled list prior to the game due to a neck strain, marking his fifth consecutive season dealing with an injury setback.
Otto Lopez, the shortstop, missed a second straight game due to inflammation in his fingers.
The Marlins will now try to avoid losing for the eighth time in a row on Tuesday night. In the second game of the three-game series, Miami’s Tyler Phillips (2-4, 3.48 ERA) takes the mound against Houston’s Tatsuya Imai (5-4, 6.06 ERA).
Per ESPN, The Marlins are 52-49 overall but only 21-29 away from home, which has made their recent run even more difficult to accept. Houston, on the other hand, is 48-54 and hoping to improve on Monday’s victory after ending a four-game losing streak.
With a batting average of.324, 33 home runs, and 20 doubles this season, Alvarez continues to be Houston’s star player.
When healthy, Lopez leads Miami at.335 with nine home runs and 46 RBI, while Liam Hicks has contributed pop with 13 home runs this season.
Daikin Park will host the first pitch on Tuesday at 8:10 p.m. Eastern time.
